The Core by Leigh A. Bortins

The Core

by Leigh A. Bortins

In the past, correct spelling, the multiplication tables, the names of the state capitals and the American presidents were basics that all children were taught in school. Today, many children graduate without this essential knowledge. Most curricula today follow a haphazard sampling of topics with a focus on political correctness instead of teaching students how to study. Leigh Bortins, a leading figure in the homeschooling community, is having none of it. She believes that there are core areas of knowledge that are essential to master. Without knowing the multiplication tables, children can't advance to algebra. Without mastery of grammar, students will have difficulty expressing themselves. Without these essential building blocks of knowledge, students may remember information but they will never possess a broad and deep understanding of how the world works. In The Core, Bortins gives parents the tools and methodology to implement a rigorous, thorough, and broad curriculum based on the classical model, including:

- Rote memorization to cement knowledge
- Systematic learning of geography, historical facts, and timelines
- Reading the great books and seminal historical documents instead of adaptations and abridged editions
- Rigorous training in math and the natural sciences

Reviewed by cherryblossommj on

3 of 5 stars

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I've been very eager to get my hands on this book. I've never seen it on a good sale so I've always told myself, maybe later. Then I discovered the library had it, so I figured I'd pursue it there. This morning when I was headed to pick it up from the holds desk a friend listed it for sale on-line and I got very excited. I decided to borrow it from the library anyway just to see how excited I could get.

Well, I'm not excited anymore. I read The Conversation last week for review and knew I wanted to read The Core. (Think Core = Elementary, Question = middle, and Conversation = high school) I really enjoyed 'The Conversation' but I wasn't enthralled with The Core. It has the argument of what and why I'm doing what I am. But it doesn't have the meat that I was looking for.

In general I can tell you that I am extremely enthusiastic for the Classical Conversations Act & Facts History and Science Cards and love using them in our homeschool. I also have really enjoyed going through The Conversation and thinking toward the future with a lot of practical advice. Yet The Core left me unfulfilled and if you're trying to find a Classical Christian Education guide while considering the elementary primary years I do not think that this is it. I much prefer the Latin Centered Curriculum and The Well-Trained Mind, 3rd edition. Climbing Parnassus is next on my to-read list.
This review was originally posted on www.CreativeMadnessMama.com

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 5 August, 2015: Finished reading
  • 5 August, 2015: Reviewed